Tributes poured in torrents on Tuesday as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Festus Ochonogor, the traditional institution and political stakeholders celebrated the Chairman of the Commission’s Board, Olorogun Barr. John Nani, on his 66th birthday.
The colourful celebration, held at Nani’s country home in Jesse, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, attracted a cross-section of political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, women and youth groups, who described the celebrant as a bridge-builder, development-driven leader and dependable statesman.
Addressing guests, Nani attributed his life’s achievements to God’s faithfulness, saying divine grace had sustained him through life’s challenges.
He thanked everyone who honoured the invitation, urging Nigerians to place their trust in God while embracing diligence and hard work as the pathway to success.
The DESOPADEC Board Chairman also expressed appreciation to Chief Ochonogor, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Monday Obukohwo Whiskey PhD, Udurhie 1, traditional chiefs and other well-wishers for their goodwill, prayers and unwavering support.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, management and staff of DESOPADEC, Ochonogor described Nani as “a jolly good fellow” whose visionary leadership has strengthened peace, unity and development across the Commission and its mandate communities.
He said the celebrant’s commitment to service had continued to inspire confidence within the Commission, praying for greater accomplishments, sound health and many more years of impactful leadership.
Also speaking, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Udurhie 1, hailed Nani as one of the kingdom’s most distinguished sons whose contributions to community development and youth and women empowerment had transformed lives.
The monarch said the kingdom remained proud of Nani’s achievements, expressing confidence that his commitment to public service would continue to attract greater opportunities for the people.
He also expressed optimism that the developmental foundation laid within DESOPADEC would continue to yield positive results for staff and host communities.
Other dignitaries, including High Chief Solomon Ojariafe Odemero (JP), the Unugbrogodo of Idjerhe Kingdom; APC House of Assembly candidate for Sapele Constituency, Hon. Ejiro Jamani; President of the Nigeria Youth Council, Delta State Chapter, Comrade Sagboje Milton; Idjerhe Women in Politics leader, Mrs. Asoro Felicia; and Barr. Frank John Nani, unanimously described the celebrant as an accessible, compassionate and selfless leader.
They commended his unwavering dedication to humanity, saying his generosity, integrity and passion for grassroots development had earned him widespread admiration across Delta State.
The speakers offered prayers for continued divine protection, wisdom, good health and greater accomplishments as Nani begins another chapter of his life.
